12 Unique Christmas Gifts for Teens and Young Adults: Literary Journeys of Self-Discovery

As the Christmas season approaches, what better gift for teens and young adults than the timeless wisdom and inspiration found in Christian literature? This curated list features twelve exceptional books infused with Christian themes. From the captivating and award-winning You Are a Bird by Breezy Van Lit to classics and contemporary gems, these books not only make thoughtful presents but also provide valuable insights into the journey of growing up and understanding the world.

1. “You Are a Bird” by Breezy Van Lit: Soar into an Unusual Journey of Hope
   

   • Written in the second person point of view, You Are a Bird stands as a testament to the power of this perspective to allow the reader to enter the immediacy of a masterfully crafted story, and in this case, to enter into the mind of an unforgettable bird with a dream to be free. You Are a Bird is an entertaining novella, but it also gives teen and young adult readers the opportunity to deeply explore the true nature of freedom from a truly unique perspective.

2. “The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis: Epic Christian Allegory

   • C.S. Lewis’s beloved series, The Chronicles of Narnia, is a Christian allegory that takes readers on a fantastical journey through a magical land. Filled with biblical symbolism, this series is a timeless gift for teens exploring the Christian themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the battle between good and evil.

3. “Redeeming Love” by Francine Rivers: Unconditional Love

   • Francine Rivers’ Redeeming Love is a powerful Christian novel that explores the theme of unconditional love, drawing parallels to the biblical story of Hosea and Gomer. This tale of forgiveness and redemption is a heartfelt gift for young adults seeking stories that reflect the transformative power of God’s love.

4. “The Hiding Place” by Corrie ten Boom: Faith in the Face of Persecution

   • Corrie ten Boom’s autobiographical account, The Hiding Place, recounts her family’s experiences hiding Jews during World War II and their subsequent imprisonment in concentration camps. Grounded in Christian faith, this book is a poignant reminder of courage, forgiveness, and the triumph of good over evil.

5. “The Pilgrim’s Progress” by John Bunyan: Journey of Faith

   • John Bunyan’s timeless allegory, “The Pilgrim’s Progress,” takes readers on a spiritual journey, exploring the challenges and triumphs of Christian’s quest for salvation. This classic is a meaningful gift for young adults seeking to deepen their understanding of faith and the Christian walk.

6. “Screwtape Letters” by C.S. Lewis: Spiritual Warfare

   • C.S. Lewis’s “Screwtape Letters” offers a unique perspective on spiritual warfare through a series of letters from a senior demon to his nephew. This insightful and thought-provoking book provides a Christian lens on the challenges faced by individuals in their spiritual journey.

7. “The Shack” by William P. Young: Healing and Forgiveness

   • William P. Young’s “The Shack” is a Christian novel that delves into themes of healing, forgiveness, and the nature of God. This emotionally resonant story is a thoughtful gift for young adults exploring the complexities of faith and grappling with questions of divine love and redemption.

8. “Through Gates of Splendor” by Elisabeth Elliot: Missionary Sacrifice

   • Elisabeth Elliot’s account of her husband’s missionary work, “Through Gates of Splendor,” is a poignant Christian narrative that explores sacrifice, faith, and the enduring impact of a life dedicated to spreading the message of Christ. This book serves as an inspiring gift for those interested in missions and Christian service.

9. “The Divine Comedy” by Dante Alighieri: Christian Allegorical Epic

   • Dante Alighieri’s “The Divine Comedy” is a classic Christian epic that takes readers through the realms of Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise. Filled with allegorical symbolism, this masterpiece is a profound gift for those interested in exploring Christian themes of divine justice, repentance, and the journey towards God.

10. “The Problem of Pain” by C.S. Lewis: Christian Reflections

    • C.S. Lewis’s “The Problem of Pain” is a Christian theological exploration of the nature of suffering and the role it plays in the Christian faith. This intellectually stimulating book is a thoughtful gift for young adults grappling with questions of pain and the Christian worldview.

11. “Joshua: A Parable for Today” by Joseph Girzone: Christian Parable

    • Joseph Girzone’s “Joshua” is a modern Christian parable that tells the story of a mysterious stranger and the impact he has on a small town. This uplifting and thought-provoking book is a wonderful addition to this list, offering readers a Christian perspective on compassion, love, and the transformative power of faith.

12. “Mere Christianity” by C.S. Lewis: Christian Apologetics

    • C.S. Lewis’s “Mere Christianity” is a foundational work of Christian apologetics that explores the common ground of Christian beliefs. This intellectually stimulating book is a valuable gift for young adults seeking a deeper understanding of the core principles of Christianity.

This Christmas season, consider the gift of Christian literary exploration for the teens and young adults in your life. Each of these twelve Christian books offers a distinct journey of self-discovery and a deeper understanding of transformative biblical principles. Wrap up these literary gems this Christmas, and watch as your loved ones unwrap not just books but pathways to deeper faith, wisdom, and the everlasting truths found in the pages of these great works of Christian literature.